Dual-mini-blind cutter

ABSTRACT

A mini-blind cutter for selective manual in-store sizing of a first mini-blind product and a second mini-blind product. Each of the mini-blind products include a head rail, a plurality of slats, and a bottom rail having a different geometry and or material composition. A die assembly is movable from a first position to a second position includes a first and second region to receive the first and second mini-blind products. A blade carrier assembly includes at least two blade carriers and permits permit independent translation of the blade carriers to accommodate the different sized mini-blind products.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This is a division of co-pending application Ser. No. 09/321,674titled “Dual Mini Blind Cutter,” filed May 31, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No.______, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser.No. 08/900,987 titled “Dual Mini Blind Cutter,” filed Jul. 25, 1997 nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,167,789 granted on Jan. 2, 2001 and are incorporated byreference herein.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] This invention relates generally to the art of sizing windowcoverings such as mini-blinds, more particularly the present inventionrelates to a cutter for selective cutting of two mini-blind products,wherein the blinds are made of different material (e.g. vinyl andaluminum) and different geometric characteristics.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Numerous types of window coverings are now being sold in avariety of outlets. Window coverings of the type with which the presentinvention is concerned include mini-blinds, as opposed to draperies andcurtains which may be sold in the same outlets, but which involvedifferent sizing requirements. The type of outlets that sell custommini-blinds typically include custom specialty shops and departmentstores which usually ask the customer for window dimensions and thensubmit orders to factories or distribution centers where the productsare cut to a specific size. Not only must the customer make two visitsto these outlets to obtain the product, but the custom mini-blinds arerelatively expensive.

[0004] Mass merchandisers also distribute mini-blinds. In many suchoutlets only stock sizes are carried, because some windows, especiallyin newer homes and offices are of standard dimensions. These mini-blindsare usually much less expensive than those obtained from custom outletsbecause of the economy realized from carrying a limited stock of sizesand because there are no sizing operations which must be performed onthe products.

[0005] In recent years, a third option has been made available to thecustomer. This option involves the in-store sizing of mini-blinds andvarious other window coverings to customer specifications. An example ofhow in-store sizing can be accomplished is disclosed in commonly ownedU.S. Pat. No. 5,339,716 issued Aug. 23, 1994 to Sands et al. andentitled “MINI BLIND CUTTER” (the '716 patent). This patent discloses amini-blind cutter for cutting mini-blind slats, as well as mini-blindbottom rails and headrails to a desired size. The mini-blind cutter maybe used to cut the mini-blind slats and rails on either end as areadjustment of mounting mechanisms or ladders is not required.

[0006] The mini-blind cutter disclosed in the '716 patent includes aframework having a receiving area for receiving the end of themini-blind to be cut. A cutter blade is attached to a bar which isslidably mounted to the framework. This bar includes a rack engaged witha pinion gear that is rotated by a ratchet handle. Movement of theratchet handle thus slides the bar along the framework and forces thecutter blade through the end portion of the mini-blind. The mini-blindcutter is used to cut the mini-blind slats, headrail and bottom rail oneither end, so readjustment of the mounting mechanism or ladders is notrequired when sizing the mini-blind.

[0007] Additionally, commonly owned U.S. Pat. No. 5,456,149 issued Oct.10, 1995 to Elsenheimer et al. and entitled “SIZING SYSTEMS FOR WINDOWCOVERINGS” (the '149 patent) discloses a system for sizing variouswindow products such as roller shades, mini-blinds, pleated shades andvertical blinds. This system is used in department stores and massmerchandising outlets. The '149 patent discloses a system having fourstations with a flip-top horizontal surface containing sizing equipmenton opposed sides. The system includes fixed cutters, e.g. for rollershades and for cutting the headrail of vertical blinds.

[0008] Another system for trimming a venetian blind assembly isdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,819,530 issued Apr. 11, 1989 to Huangentitled “APPARATUS METHOD FOR TRIMMING A VENETIAN BLIND ASSEMBLY”. Thedevice disclosed in this patent employs a hydraulic or pneumaticcylinder or solenoid to drive the blade in order to cut the variouscomponents of the mini-blind.

[0009] Other mini-blind cutters are available to manually cut headrailsmanufactured from steel which include a drive mechanism consisting ofeither an elongated lever arm or a rotary input coupled with a camdriver device.

[0010] However, there are no mini-blind cutter mechanisms for use inin-store sizing which can accommodate two blind configurations havingdifferent shapes and wherein the blinds are made of different materialssuch as vinyl and steel.

[0011] Accordingly, it would be advantageous to be able to provide amini-blind cutter which would be able to cut two different mini-blindproducts having different geometric or material characteristics, e.g.where the headrail and bottom rail components are formed from eithersteel or vinyl. It would also be advantageous if the system is compactand able to be used in conjunction with sizing systems such as the onedescribed in the '149 patent referenced above.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The present invention relates to a blind cutter for selective,in-store sizing of a first mini-blind product and a second mini-blindproduct having different geometric configurations. Each mini-blindproduct to be sized includes a headrail, a plurality of slats and abottom rail. The blind cutter includes a framework and a die assemblycoupled to the framework. The die assembly is moveable from a firstposition to a second position with respect to the framework. The dieassembly preferably includes a first region for receiving a portion ofthe headrail, a plurality of slats and the bottom rail of the firstmini-blind product, and a second region for receiving a portion of theheadrail, a plurality of slats and the bottom rail of the secondmini-blind product. The cutter further includes a blade carrier assemblyattached to the framework. The blade carrier assembly includes a bladeattached thereto. A drive system is connected to the framework and bladecarrier assembly to provide translation of the blade. The blade istranslated proximate the first region of the die assembly to size thefirst mini-blind product when the die assembly is in a first position.The blade is also translated proximate the second region of the dieassembly to size the second mini-blind product when the die assembly isin a second position.

[0013] In another aspect of the invention, the frame includes a baseplate having a bottom surface defining a base plane. The drive systemincludes a handle assembly disposed to rotate in a plane parallel to thebase plane.

[0014] In yet another aspect of the invention the cutter also includes adrive system having a second blade carrier provided with a second blade.The two blade carriers are connected to the framework and blade carrierassembly to provide independent linear translation of a first bladecarrier for a pre-determined first distance. The drive system furtherprovides simultaneous linear translation of the first and second bladecarriers for a pre-determined second distance.

[0015] In a further aspect of the invention a blind cutter for in-storesizing a mini-blind product including a head rail, a plurality of slats,and a bottom rail, the blind cutter includes a framework and a dieassembly. The die assembly is coupled to the framework having a regionfor receiving a portion of each of the head rail, plurality of slats,and bottom rail. A blade carrier assembly is attached to the framework,and includes a first blade carrier having a first blade member attachedthereto, and a second blade carrier having a second blade memberattached thereto. A drive system is connected to the framework and bladecarrier assembly to provide independent linear translation of the firstblade carrier for a pre-determined first distance, and simultaneouslinear translation of the first and second blade carriers for apre-determined second distance.

[0016] In another aspect of the invention a blind cutter is capable ofselectively in-store sizing a first mini-blind product and a differentsecond mini-blind product. The blind cutter includes a framework and adie assembly coupled to the frame work. The die assembly includes afirst region for receiving a portion of the head rail, plurality ofslats and bottom rail of the first mini-blind product, and a secondregion for receiving a portion of the head rail, plurality of slats andbottom rail of the second mini-blind product. The die assembly ismovable from a first position for cutting the first mini-blind productto a second position for cutting the second mini-blind product. A bladecarrier assembly is attached to the framework and includes a first bladecarrier having a first blade member attached thereto, and a second bladecarrier having a second blade member attached thereto. A drive isconnected to the framework and blade carrier assembly to provide lineartranslation of the first and second blade carriers to size the firstmini-blind product when the die assembly is in the first position, andto size the second mini-blind product when the die assembly is in thesecond position.

[0017] Still a further aspect of the invention is a blind cutter forin-store sizing a mini-blind product including a head rail, a pluralityof slats, and a bottom rail. The blind cutter includes a framework and adie assembly coupled to the framework. The die assembly has a region forreceiving a portion of each of the head rail, plurality of slats, andbottom rail. A blade carrier assembly is attached to the framework andincludes at least one blade carrier movable from a first extendedposition in which the mini-blind product is loaded into the blind cutterfor sizing and a second retracted position in which the mini-blindproduct has been sized. A drive system includes a driving pawl and trackand is connected to the framework and blade carrier assembly to providelinear translation of the at least one blade carrier to size themini-blind product. The drive system further includes a switch forreleasing the driving pawl from the track to permit manual movement ofthe first blade carrier from the retracted to the extended position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The invention will hereafter be described with reference to theaccompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals denote likeelements, and:

[0019]FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the right or exit side of themini-blind cutter of the present invention;

[0020]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the left or loading side of themini-blind cutter of FIG. 1;

[0021]FIG. 3 is a top plan view of the cutter shown in FIG. 1;

[0022]FIG. 4 is a rear elevation view of the mini-blind cutter of FIG.1;

[0023]FIG. 5 is a front elevation view of the mini-blind cutter of FIG.1;

[0024]FIG. 6 is an elevation view of the right side of the mini-blindcutter of FIG. 1;

[0025]FIG. 7 is an elevation view of the mini-blind cutter of FIG. 1 ina first engaged position;

[0026]FIG. 8 is an elevation view of the mini-blind cutter of FIG. 1 inthe fully extended position;

[0027]FIG. 9 is an elevation view of the mini-blind cutter of FIG. 1 inthe loading position where the die assembly is in the first or lowerposition;

[0028]FIG. 10 is anisometric view of the die assembly of the mini-blindcutter of FIG. 1;

[0029]FIG. 11 is a right elevation view of the die assembly of FIG. 10;

[0030]FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 12-12of FIG. 11;

[0031]FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 13-13of FIG. 6;

[0032]FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 14-14of FIG. 6.

[0033]FIG. 15 is an exploded view of the rear end plate, slide mechanismand a partial fragmentary view of the die assembly of the mini-blindsystem of FIG. 1;

[0034]FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 16-16of FIG. 6 in the starting position;

[0035]FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along line 16-16of FIG. 6 in the fully extended position;

[0036]FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along lines18-18 of FIG. 6;

[0037]FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along lines18-18 of FIG. 6 with the headrail, bottom rail and slats in loaded inthe cutter;

[0038]FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along lines18-18 of FIG. 6 with the slat blade having extended through the bottomrail;

[0039]FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view taken generally along lines18-18 of FIG. 6 with the slat carrier engaged with the slats and theheadrail blade engaged with the head rail;

[0040]FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional taken generally along lines 18-18 ofFIG. 6 with the slat carrier, head rail carrier in the fully extendedposition;

[0041]FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the right or exit side of asecond embodiment of the mini-blind cutter;

[0042]FIG. 24 is a plan view of the right side of the mini-blind cutterof FIG. 23;

[0043]FIG. 25 is a plan view of the left side of the mini-blind cutterof FIG. 23;

[0044]FIG. 26 is a plan view of the right side of the mini-blind cutterof FIG. 23 with the pawls disengaged from the rack;

[0045]FIG. 27 is a partial plan view of the right side of the mini-blindcutter of FIG. 23 with the die assembly in the first position;

[0046]FIG. 28 is cross-sectional view taken generally along line 28-28of FIG. 27;

[0047]FIG. 29 is cross-sectional view taken generally along line 29-29of FIG. 27;

[0048]FIG. 30 is a partial plan view of the left side of the mini-blindcutter of FIG. 23 with the die assembly in the first position;

[0049]FIG. 31 is cross-sectional view taken generally along line 31-31of FIG. 30;

[0050]FIG. 32 is a partial plan view of the right side of the mini-blindcutter of FIG. 23 with the die assembly in the second position;

[0051]FIG. 33 is cross-sectional view taken generally along line 33-33of FIG. 32;

[0052]FIG. 34 is cross-sectional view taken generally along line 34-34of FIG. 32;

[0053]FIG. 35 is a partial plan view of the left side of the mini-blindcutter of FIG. 23 with the die assembly in the second position; and

[0054]FIG. 36 is cross-sectional view taken generally along line 35-35of FIG. 35;

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0055] Referring generally to FIG. 1 a mini-blind cutter 10 will bedescribed. Cutter 10 is used to cut one or both ends of a mini-blindproduct 12 having a headrail 14, a plurality of slats 16 and a bottomrail 18. In the preferred embodiment both ends of the mini-blind product12 is cut. All of these components may be downsized with cutter 10 toproperly size the mini-blind for a given window opening. Cutter 10 maybe used to cut two different mini-blind configurations. One exemplaryfirst configuration includes a vinyl headrail, vinyl bottom rail andeither aluminum or vinyl slats. A second exemplary configurationincludes a steel headrail and bottom rail and aluminum slats. Cutter 10could also be configured to cut steel slats.

[0056] In the preferred embodiment the geometric shape of thecross-section of the mini-blind components of the first and secondconfigurations to be sized are also different. Cutter 10 could also beadapted to cut a wide variety of other combinations of mini-blindcomponents or other components of pleated, cellular, venetian orvertical blinds.

[0057] Referring generally to FIG. 1, mini-blind cutter 10, according tothe present invention, includes a framework or frame 20 supporting amovable die assembly 22 that works in cooperation with a carrierassembly 24. Die assembly 22 is movable from a first or lowered positionto cut a mini-blind having the first configuration to a second or raisedposition to cut a mini-blind having the second configuration. Dieassembly is shown in the first lowered position in FIG. 9 and in thesecond raised position in FIGS. 1 and 6.

[0058] A drive system 28 is supported on frame 20 to drive a portion ofcarrier assembly 24 relative to die assembly 22 to effectuate thecutting of the mini-blind components in either the first or secondpositions.

[0059] Referring generally to FIGS. 1-5, frame 20 includes a bottomplate 30 having a front side 30 a, a rear side 30 b, a loading side 30c, an exit side 30 d, a top surface 30 e and a bottom surface 30 f.Bottom plate 30 further includes a front channel 32 proximate front side30 a and a center channel 34 located a set distance from front channel32 in a direction toward rear side 30 b. Front and center channels 32,34 are parallel to one another and to front side 30 a. Channels 32, 34extend from loading side 30 c to exit side 30 d of bottom plate 30.

[0060] Frame 20 further includes a front plate 36 located in frontchannel 32, and a rear plate 38 located in center channel 34. Frontplate and rear plate 36, 38 include an upper aperture 40, 42 and a loweraperture 44, 46 configured to receive an upper and lower shaft 48, 50respectively. Upper and lower shafts 48, 50 are used in conjunction withcarrier assembly 24. Each of front plate and rear plate 36, 38 includesa pair of threaded apertures 52 extending through an exit side edge 36e, 38 e to upper apertures 40, 42 and lower apertures 44, 46 to receivea set screw 58 for setting the position of upper and lower shafts 48,50.

[0061] Each of front plate 36 and rear plate 38, includes an internalside 36 a, 38 a and an external side 36 b, 38 b. Internal sides 36 a and38 a face one another while external sides 36 b, 38 b face away from oneanother. Each internal side 36 a, 38 a includes a channel 64, 66 formedtherein. (See FIGS. 14 and 15). Each channel 64, 66 has an orientationof eighty five (85) degrees relative to a bottom edge 36 c, 38 c of eachfront and rear plate 36, 38 respectively. Each channel 64, 66 furtherincludes a pair of slots 68, 70 centrally located in the channel andhaving an axis which is also orientated at eighty five (85) degreesrelative to bottom edge 36 c, 38 c.

[0062] Frame 20 further includes a pair of slide blocks 72, 74. Eachslide block has a width narrower than the width of each channel 64, 66to permit each slide block, 72, 74 to slidably move within eachrespective channel 64, 66. Each slide block 72, 74 includes a groove 76,78 which has an orientation of five (5) degrees relative to an outeredge 72 a, 74 a of slide block 72, 74 respectively. Each slide block 72,74 is slidably located in channel 64, 66 of front and rear plates 36, 38respectively. In this orientation each groove 76, 78 is perpendicular tobottom plate 30 regardless of the location of slide block 72, 74 withinchannels 64, 66.

[0063] Each slide block 72, 74 further includes a pair of threadedapertures 81. Each slide block 72, 74 is removably secured to front andrear plate 36, 38 respectively by a pair of screws 83 which are locatedthrough slots 68, 70 and threaded into apertures 81 of slide blocks 72,74. By loosening screws 83 it is possible to move each slide block alongchannel 64, 66 to effectively move groove 76, 78 closer to or furtherfrom the exit side of cutter 10. This adjustment of slide blocks 72, 74allows for optimal operation of cutter 10 as will be described below.

[0064] Frame 20 also includes a top plate 86 attached to front plate 36and rear plate 38. Top plate 86 includes a plurality of through holeswhich are aligned with a plurality of threaded holes in a top portion 36d, 38 d of front and rear plates 36, 38. Top plate 86 is attached tofront and rear plates 36, 38 with a plurality of screws 88. Each screw88 extends through a respective through hole and is threaded into arespective threaded hole.

[0065] Additionally, frame 20 includes a first support plate 90 locatedbetween front plate 36 and rear plate 38 proximate loading side 30 c ofbottom plate 30. A second support plate 92 is located parallel to firstsupport plate 90 a set distance from the left or loading side 30 c ofbottom plate 30. A shelf plate 94 is located parallel to bottom plate 30and is supported atop first and second support plates 90, 92. (See FIGS.2 and 13). Shelf plate 94 is attached to first and second support plates90, 92 with a plurality of screws 96. Additionally shelf plate 94 isattached to front plate 36 and rear plate 38 with a pair of screws 98.

[0066] Shelf plate 94 supports a slat shear plate 100 that is used inconjunction with die assembly 22 and carrier assembly 24 which will bedescribed in greater detail below. Slat shear plate 100 is attached toshelf plate 94 with a pair of screws 102. (See FIG. 2).

[0067] Frame 20 also includes a spring tower 104 attached to bottomplate 30 in a slot 106 proximate the rear side 30 b of bottom plate 30.Bottom plate 30 further includes a through slot 108 extending from rearside 30 b of bottom plate 30 a set distance toward front side 30 a. (SeeFIGS. 1 and 4).

[0068] Referring generally to FIGS. 10-12, die assembly 22 will now bedescribed in greater detail. As noted above die assembly 22 cooperateswith frame 20 to permit die assembly 22 to be moved from a first loweredposition for cutting a first mini-blind product having a firstconfiguration to a second raised position for cutting a secondmini-blind product having a second configuration. Die assembly 22includes a first region 110 for receiving a portion of each of theheadrail, plurality of slats, and bottom rail of the first mini-blindproduct, and a second region 112 for receiving a portion of each of theheadrail, plurality of slats, and bottom rail of the second mini-blindproduct.

[0069] Die assembly 22 includes a bottom die plate 114 and an opposingtop die plate 116. Die assembly 22 further includes a support side plate118 located intermediate top die plate 116 and bottom die plate 114.Support side plate 118 is attached to top die plate 116 and bottom dieplate 114 with screws 120. Support side plate 118 has a front side 118a, a rear side 118 b, a top side 118 c, a bottom side 118 d, a loadingside surface 118 e and a cutting side surface 118 f.

[0070] Die assembly 22 further includes a headrail die block 122attached intermediate top die plate 116 and bottom die plate 114 distalsupport side plate 118. Headrail die block 122 includes a front side 122a, a rear side 122 b, a top side 122 c, a bottom side 122 d, a loadingside surface 122 e and a cutting side surface 122 f.

[0071] Headrail die block 122 and support side plate 118 each include aguide flange 124, 126 extending from front side 122 a and rear side 118b respectively. Guide flanges 124, 126 are employed to guide dieassembly 22 within grooves 76, 78 as it is moved from the first positionto the second position. Each flange 124, 126 extends from top side 122c, 118 c to bottom side 122 d, 118 d respectively.

[0072] In the preferred embodiment each flange 124, 126 is rectangularand extends outward from headrail die block 122 and support side plate118. (See FIG. 10). Of course other geometric configurations thatcooperate with grooves 76, 78 may also be used.

[0073] Headrail die block 122 includes a first slot 128 having the shapeof the cross-section of the first headrail and a second slot 130 havingthe shape of the a cross-section of the second headrail. The first slot128 is located proximate top die plate 116 and second slot 130 islocated proximate bottom die plate 114.

[0074] Die assembly 22 further includes a bottom rail die 132 having abottom surface 132 a and a rear surface 132 b. Bottom rail die 132includes a slot 133 having the configuration of the cross-section of thebottom rail of the second configuration. Bottom surface 132 a of bottomrail die 132 is located adjacent bottom die plate 30. Rear surface 132 bof bottom rail die 132 is located adjacent support side plate 118. Inthis manner die assembly 22 includes a first opening or receiving area134 defined by the open space intermediate headrail die block 122 andsupport side plate 118, and a second opening 136 defined by the spaceintermediate headrail die block 122 to bottom rail die 132.

[0075] Bottom rail die 132 also includes a cutting side surface 132 chaving a curved form configured to match the curved form of a cuttingblade 138 of the carrier assembly 24. Similarly, slat shear plate 100includes a cutting side surface 100 a having a curved form configured tomatch the curved form of cutting blade 138.

[0076] Die assembly 22 further includes a catch lever 140 manufacturedor formed from a nylon material. Catch lever 140 includes a beveledcatch portion 142 configured to secure die assembly in the secondposition. Catch lever 140 also includes a lift lever 144 to aid in theraising and lowering of die assembly 22 from the first lowered positionto the second or raised position. Catch lever 140 must have sufficientresiliency to permit beveled catch portion 142 to engage and disengagetop plate 116 by an operator without excessive force. Additionally,catch lever 140 must have sufficient strength to maintain die assemblyin the raised second position. Although nylon is the preferred material,other materials having similar characteristics could be used.

[0077] Referring again to FIG. 1, carrier assembly 24 will now bedescribed in greater detail. Carrier assembly 24 includes a slat/bottomrail blade carrier 146 (hereinafter slat carrier) and a headrail bladecarrier 148 (hereinafter headrail carrier). Each of the slat carrier 146and headrail carrier 148 is independently and slidably attached to uppershaft 48 and lower shaft 50. As described above, upper shaft 48 andlower shaft 50 are located within an upper aperture 40, 42 and a loweraperture 44, 46 of front plate 36 and rear plate 38 respectively. Uppershaft 48 and lower shaft 50 are fixed relative to front plate 36 andrear plate 38 by set screws 58.

[0078] Slat carrier 146 includes an upper section 150 having a bearingaperture 152 extending therethrough and a lower section 154 having abearing aperture 156 extending therethrough. A pair of bearings 158 arepress fit within bearing apertures 152, 156. Slat carrier 146 slidablymoves on upper and lower shafts 48, 50 by means of pair of press fitbearings 158. A center region 162 is integrally formed with and connectsupper section 150 and lower section 154 together.

[0079] Similarly, headrail carrier 148 is slidably located on uppershaft 48 and lower shaft 50 by a pair of bearings 164. While in thepreferred embodiment the pair of bearings 164 is not press fit, it ispossible to employ press fit bearings in the headrail carrier as well asthe slat carrier. The use of press fit bearings allows for greaterstability of the carriers during the cutting operation.

[0080] Slat carrier 146 is movably connected to headrail carrier 148 bymeans of at least one connecting rod 166. However, in the preferredembodiment three connecting rods 166 are utilized. Each connecting rod166 includes a first bolt 167 extending through a respective aperture170 in headrail carrier 148 and threadably secured to a spacer 172. Inthis manner spacer 172 is fixed relative to headrail carrier 148. A capscrew 174 having a head 176 extends through a nonthreaded aperture 178in the slat carrier 146 and is threadably secured to spacer 172. Eachaperture 170 includes a counter bore 180 having a depth equal to thelength of head 176. This permits the top of head 176 to be flush with anexternal or rear surface 146 a of slat carrier 146.

[0081] Connecting rods 166 establish a maximum and minimum distancebetween slat carrier 146 and headrail carrier 148. The maximum distanceis achieved when head 176 is seated within the base of counter bore 180.(See FIGS. 1 and 16). The minimum distance is achieved when an internalor front surface 146 b, of slat carrier 146 is adjacent spacer 172. (SeeFIG. 17). In the minimum distance position, head 176 of cap screw 174 isa set distance from slat carrier 146.

[0082] Slat carrier 146 further includes blade 138 secured to the centerregion 162 by means of two screws extending therethrough. (See FIG. 1).The geometry of blade 138 is described in the '716 patent referred toabove and is incorporated herein by reference. Slat carrier 146 alsoincludes a chute region 184 located proximate blade 138 and is definedby the open region intermediate upper section 150 and lower section 154.Lower section 154 includes a top beveled surface 155 having a slopedregion extending downward toward the cutting side 30 d of base 30. Chuteregion 184 permits the cut portions of the bottom rail and slats toeasily exit cutter 10 to a waste receptacle for example. (See FIG. 1).

[0083] An indicator 188 is attached to cutting side surface 146 c ofupper section 150 of slat carrier 146. Indicator 188 includes a pointer190 that extends over top plate 86 to indicate the position of slatcarrier 146 during the cutting process. Top plate 86 may additionallyinclude indicia indicating the position of slat carrier 146 during thecutting process.

[0084] Slat carrier 146 further includes a pair of spring attachmentbosses 192 attached to rear surface 146 a of slat carrier 146. Each boss192 includes an aperture for receiving an end of a return coil extensionspring 194. In the preferred embodiment two springs 194 are employed.(See FIG. 6).

[0085] Also attached to slat carrier 146 is an arm 196 whichcommunicates with drive system 28. Arm 196 is attached to rear surface146 a of slat carrier 146 with screws. As illustrated in FIG. 1, thescrews attaching arm 196 extend through center region 162. In thepreferred embodiment center region 162 includes through holes and arm196 includes a pair of threaded holes to securably receive the screws.

[0086] Turning to headrail carrier 148, a piercing blade 198 is attachedto a center portion 199 of headrail carrier 148. Piercing blade 198 hasa “W” shaped configuration, including a center piercing section 198 aand two side sections 198 b, extending from center piercing section 198a. Piercing blade 198 has a substantially uniform thickness. However,piercing blade 198 may also have a beveled region proximate the cuttingportions of the center and side sections 198 a, 198 b. The uniformthickness provides for a more uniform cut and longer blade life.

[0087] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2 and 8 drive system 28 will now bedescribed. Drive system 28 includes a handle assembly 200 having ahandle 202 pivotally attached to a handle arm 204. A clutch bearing 205is attached to arm 204 distal handle 202 to limit movement of handle arm204 in a single rotary direction. In the preferred embodiment the handleassembly is supplied by Reid Tool Supply located in Muskegon Michiganand identified by part number KHQ-20.

[0088] Handle assembly 200 is operated in a plane parallel to the planedefined by top plate 86. Further, handle arm 204 is operable in a planeparallel to the plane in which the mini-blind to be sized is locatedduring the sizing operation. Handle 202 includes a longitudinal axiswhich is transverse to the plane of operation of the handle assembly200. Handle 202 may be pivoted for storage such that the longitudinalaxis of handle 204 is substantially parallel to handle arm 204. Thisfeature allows cutter 10 to be more compact for shipping, as well asduring use with the device described in the '149 patent.

[0089] Handle arm 204 is further attached to a shaft 206 having a worm208 attached thereto. (See FIG. 8 in dashed lines). A worm gear 210 isdriven by worm 208. A second output shaft 212 is coupled to worm gear210. (See FIGS. 16-18). In the preferred embodiment, the worm and wormgear are selected to provide a thirty to one ratio. That is thirtyrotations of handle assembly 200 results in one rotation of output shaft212. However other ratios may be employed as well. Preferably a ratio ofbetween ten to one and forty to one may be employed. Depending on thematerial of the blinds to be cut the ratio may vary to provide therequisite mechanical advantage required for operation by an operator forin-store sizing.

[0090] Shaft 206 is secured to a drive system housing 216 by means of asleeve bearing 214 that is attached thereto. Drive system housing 216includes a load side plate 218 and an exit side plate 220. Load sideplate 218 and exit side plate 220 are positively located in channels222, 224 respectively in bottom plate 30 (See FIGS. 1, 2 and 14). Drivesystem housing 216 further includes a housing cover 217 which isattached to exit side plate 220.

[0091] Sleeve bearing 214 is attached to load side plate 218. Shaft 206is positively located relative to the sleeve bearing by a pair ofcollars attached to shaft 206 proximate the top and bottom of the sleevebearing.

[0092] Output shaft 212 is rotatably attached to load side plate 218 andexit side plate 220 by a pair of bearings 226. Output shaft 212 includesa first end 228 located proximate load side plate 218 and an opposingsecond end 230. Additionally, output shaft 212 includes an elongated tabor key extending a set distance along the longitudinal axis of theoutput shaft proximate second end 230. A cam 232 having a keyway 234 islocated on output shaft 212 having a key such that keyway 234 ispositively located by key 236. (See FIG. 6). A cam attachment plate 238is attached to cam 232 with two screws 240. Cam attachment plate 238 isfurther secured to output shaft 212 with a single screw 242.

[0093] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 6 cam 232 includes an operating edge244. A follower 246 is pivotally attached to arm 196. Follower 246 ismaintained in contact with operating edge 244 of cam 232 by means ofextension springs 194. In the preferred embodiment each extension spring194 is formed from a 0.072 diameter wire, five inches long and rated at8.4 pounds per inch. Of course other springs may be utilized that areable to retract headrail carrier and slat carrier, by biasing follower246 against cam operating edge 244. Each extension spring 194 isattached at a first end 248 to a boss 250 on spring tower 104 and at asecond end 252 to boss 192 on slat carrier 146. Extension springs 194are always in tension thereby biasing follower 246 against cam operatingedge 244.

[0094] As noted above it is important for optimal cutting performancethat blades 138, 198 of headrail and slat carriers 146, 148 respectivelybe in close proximity to bottom rail die 132, slat shear plate 100 andheadrail die 122. In order to maximize dimensional integrity of slatcarrier 146 relative to die assembly 22, press fit bearings are utilizedto minimize potential deflection of the slat carrier blade 138 duringthe cutting.

[0095] By design, the cutting surface of blades 138, 198 are proximatethe bottom rail die 132, shear plate 100 and head rail die 122respectively. However, as a result of component variability andresulting tolerance stack up, as well as wear of the blades, it isdesirable to be able to adjust the position die assembly 22 relative tothe cutting surface of blades 138, 148.

[0096] As discussed above frame 20 includes slide blocks 72, 74 whichare adjustably located in channels 64, 66 of front and rear plates 36,38 respectively. Each slide block 72, 74 is adjusted upwardly ordownwardly within channels 64, 66. Movement of slide block 72, 74 upwardtoward the top the plates 36, 38 results in movement of die assembly 22toward the exit side of cutter 10. Similarly, downward movement of slideblocks 72, 74 results in movement of die assembly 22 toward the loadingside of cutter 10.

[0097] Since slide blocks 72, 74 are independently adjustable it ispossible to independently adjust each end of die assembly 22. Byindependent adjustment of the slide blocks, it is possible to compensatefor relative wear of blades 138, 198 if the blades do not wear at thesame rate.

[0098] The operation of cutter 10 and the interaction of the variouscomponents detailed above will now be described. For purposes ofdescribing the various components of mini-blind cutter 10, the front ofcutter 10 is the portion that faces the operator when utilizing cutter10. Specifically, the operator faces front end plate 36 when operatingcutter 10. (See FIG. 5). The rear of cutter 10 is opposite the front andincludes the rear side 30 b of base plate 30. (See FIG. 4). Alongitudinal axis of cutter 10 extends down the center of cutter 10 fromthe front of the cutter 10 to the rear of cutter 10. The loading side ofcutter 10 is the side in which the headrail components are loaded intocutter 10 to be cut. The loading side corresponds to the left side ofcutter 10 when the operator is facing the front of cutter 10. (See FIG.2). Similarly, the right side, the side opposite the loading side, isreferred to as the exit side. This is the side from which the cutportions of the mini-blind are expelled after they are cut. Thetransverse direction of cutter 10 is the direction perpendicular ornormal to the longitudinal axis toward the loading or exit sides.Finally, a base plane is defined by the bottom surface 30 f of baseplate 30.

[0099] Turning now to the operation of cutter 10 itself, the two modesof operation as discussed above will be addressed. In the first mode ofoperation, as illustrated in FIG. 9, die assembly 22 is in a first orlower position such that first slot 128 of headrail die 112 and firstreceiving area 134 are located proximate shelf plate 94. In this firstmode of operation a mini-blind product having a first configuration issized. As discussed above, for purposes of illustration the firstconfiguration will include a headrail and bottom rail formed from vinyland a plurality of slats formed of vinyl or aluminum.

[0100] In the second mode of operation as illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 6,die assembly 22 is in the second or raised position such that secondslot 130 of headrail die 112, second receiving area 136 and bottom die132 are located proximate shelf plate 94. In this second mode ofoperation a mini-blind product having a second configuration is sized.The exemplary mini-blind product of the second configuration includes aheadrail and bottom rail formed from steel and a plurality of slatsformed of aluminum or steel. It should also be noted that the first andsecond blind configurations also have different geometric shapes.

[0101] Die assembly 22 is moved from the first position to the secondposition by lifting lever 144 in the upward direction until catch 142engages top plate 86. (See FIG. 1). In a similar manner die assembly 22may be moved from the second position back to the first position bydepressing catch 142 toward the loading side of cutter 10 therebyreleasing lever catch from top plate 86. Once catch 142 is released, dieassembly 22 may be lowered to the first position by the operator withlever 144.

[0102] While die assembly 22 is movable in an up/down directiontransverse to the base plane, die assembly 22 is positively located inframe 20 in the other directions. This is accomplished by engagement offlanges 124, 126 within grooves 76, 78 of slide blocks 72, 74 which aresecured within channels 64, 66 of front and rear plates 36, 38.

[0103] For both modes of operation the starting position of the drivesystem and carrier assembly is the same. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 9 drivesystem and carrier assembly is in the start position. In this startposition, follower 246 is located adjacent point A on cam 232 whichrepresents the point of minimum radius of cam 232. Slat carrier 146 isat a point closest to rear plate 38. In the start position the distancebetween slat carrier 146 and headrail carrier 148 is maximized.Additionally, in this position the heads 176 of connecting rods 166 arelocated within counter bores 180.

[0104] For illustrative purposes the operation of cutter 10 in thesecond mode of operation will be described first. With die assembly 22in the second or raised position, headrail 14, slats 16, and bottom rail18 of the first mini-blind configuration are loaded into cutter 10 forsizing. Facing the front plate 36 of cutter 10 the operator loads theblind into cutter 10 from the left or loading side of cutter 10. (SeeFIGS. 1 and 18).

[0105] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 18 headrail 14 is slid throughsecond slot 130 of headrail die 122. Similarly slats 16 are slid intosecond receiving area 136 proximate slat shear plate 100. Finally,bottom rail 18 is slid into bottom die slot 133. Headrail 14, slats 16and bottom rail 18 are positioned such that the portion of eachcomponent to be cut extends beyond exit surface 122 f of headrail die,exit surface of slat shear plate 100 and exit surface 132 crespectively.

[0106] Once the blind components are loaded into cutter 10 andpositioned relative to the exit side of die assembly 22, the operatorbegins the cut cycle by manually rotating handle assembly 200 in aclockwise direction. Rotation of handle assembly 200 and handle arm 204specifically occurs in a plane parallel to the base plane. It is alsopossible to design handle assembly 200 for counterclockwise rotation.Counter-clockwise rotation of handle assembly 200 may be desirable toallow greater leverage for the right handed operator.

[0107] Rotation of handle assembly 200 results in the rotation of shaft206 and worm 208, which in turn rotates worm gear 210 and output shaft212, which in turn rotates cam 232 in a clockwise position. Theclockwise rotation of cam 232 is defined by viewing cam 232 from theexit side of cutter 10.

[0108] In the preferred embodiment, handle assembly 200 is rotatedthirty times to complete a single rotation of cam 232. The completerotation of cam 232 represents one complete cutting cycle of cutter 10.A complete cutting cycle includes translation of blades 138, 198 from astarting position to a fully extended position in which the mini-blindcomponents are cut and return the blades 138, 198 are returned to thestarting position.

[0109] As cam 232 is rotated, follower 246 is translated toward thefront of cutter 10 which results in the forward movement of slat carrier146. The cam profile is configured such that the rate of forwardtranslation of follower 246 varies for a given rotation of output shaft212.

[0110] In the preferred embodiment, the greatest rate of forwardtranslation of the follower per unit of rotation of the output shaftoccurs proximate the starting point A. During this initial stage of thecutting cycle, slat carrier 146 moves from the starting position to apoint proximate where blade 138 engages bottom rail 16. The forcerequired to move the slat carrier from the start position to a positionproximate bottom rail 18 is less than the force required to cut thecomponents. The mechanical advantage required initially is less thanthat required during the actual cutting of the components. Accordingly,the rate of translation per degree of rotation is greater for theinitial period in which blade carrier 146 moves from the start positionto the position in which blade 138 engages bottom rail 18.

[0111] Continued translation of slat carrier 146 and blade 138 resultsin the cutting of bottom rail 18. The curvature of blade 138 asdiscussed above is preferably flush against the curved surface 132c ofbottom rail die 132. Once a portion of bottom rail 18 has been cut itexits cutter 10 via chute region 184 of slat carrier 146. Furthertranslation of slat carrier 146 results in the engagement of blade 138with slats 16. Slats 16 are first forced forward within second opening136 against slat shear plate 100 thereby removing any slack between theslats 16. The force of blade 138 further minimizes the curvature ofslats 16 during the cutting operation. Each slat 16 is then sheared byblade 138 in seriatim and exits cutter 10 through chute 184.

[0112] During the cutting of slats 16 front surface 146b of slat carrier146 abuts spacer 172 and results in forward translation of headrailcarrier 148. As a result slat carrier 146 and headrail carrier 148 moveforward in unison. As the remainder of uncut slats 16 are cut headrail14 is cut by blade 198. (See FIG. 21).

[0113] In this manner, drive system 28 provides independent lineartranslation of the first blade carrier for a pre-determined firstdistance, and simultaneous linear translation of the first and secondblade carriers for a pre-determined second distance. The pre-determinedfirst distance being sufficient to cut the bottom rail and portions ofthe slats. The pre-determined second distance being sufficient tocomplete the cutting of the slats and headrail. This approach permitsthe overall length of cutter 10 along the longitudinal axis to bereduced. It is possible to include a separate third blade carrier, suchthat a unique blade cuts the three separate components. However thisadds additional cost.

[0114] Depending on the increased load required by simultaneouslycutting the uncut slats and headrail it is possible to alter the camprofile configuration to reduce the rate of translation per unit ofrotation of handle assembly 200. The variation in the cam profile allowsfor a constant input force on behalf of the operator. However, aconstant rate of translation can be employed for the entire portion ofthe cycle in which the blades are engaged with the components.

[0115] The carriers 146, 148 are farthest from the starting position orin the fully extended position when follower 246 is adjacent point C oncam 232. At this point head rail 14, slats 16, and bottom rail 18 arefully cut. (See FIGS. 8 and 22). Continued rotation of handle assembly200, results in the rotation of cam 232 from point C to starting pointA. The rate of reduction in radius from point C to point A allowscarriers 146, 148 to return quickly to the starting position.

[0116] In the preferred embodiment, the return of carriers 146, 148 fromthe fully extended position to the starting position is accomplishedwith rotation of approximately 30 to 36 degrees of cam 232. Based upon athirty to one ratio of rotation of handle assembly 200 to rotation ofcam 232, return of the carriers is accomplished with approximately twoand one half to three turns of handle assembly 200.

[0117] Extension springs 194 are in tension when carriers 146, 148 arein the fully extended position and bias the carriers back to thestarting position as cam 232 is rotated from point C to point A. Whileit would be possible to incorporate a step reduction in the radius frompoint C to point A this would result in the carriers “slamming” backunder the tension of springs 194. The sloped non-step reduction in theradius allows for a smoother return of carriers 146, 148.

[0118] Turning to the operation of cutter 10 in the first mode ofoperation, die assembly 22 is moved to the first or lower position suchthat first slot 130 of headrail die 122 and first opening 134 arelocated adjacent shelf plate 94. (See FIG. 9).

[0119] Similar to the process described above for sizing the mini-blindproduct having the second configuration, the mini-blind having the firstconfiguration is loaded into blind cutter from the left or loading sideof cutter 10. (See FIG. 18).

[0120] While, the headrail of the first configuration is slid throughfirst slot 128 in the manner described above for the headrail of thesecond embodiment, the slats and bottom rail 18 of the firstconfiguration are slid into first opening region 134. Although aseparate die is not used in the preferred embodiment for cutting thevinyl bottom rail, a die could be used to cut the bottom rail of thefirst configuration as well. The use of bottom die 132 for cutting thesteel bottom rail increases the dimensional integrity of the bottom railduring the cutting process.

[0121] As described above with respect to the second configuration, theheadrail, slats and bottom rail of the first position are positionedsuch that the portions to be cut extend beyond the exit surface ofheadrail die 122, slat shear plate 100, and bottom rail die 132.

[0122] The cutting operation is substantially similar to that describedabove with the noted exception that slats are forced against shear plate100 initially upon contact of bottom rail by blade 138.

[0123] Referring now to FIG. 23 a second preferred cutter mechanism 300will be described. Cutter 300 is similar to cutter 10 in a number ofrespects. First, cutter 300 includes a frame 302 similar to frame 20 ofcutter 10. Accordingly, every element of frame 302 will not be describedagain. However, the differences between frame 302 and frame 20 will beoutlined below as required to support the description of the variousmodified systems. For example, since cutter 300 includes a differentdrive system, frame 302 does not include a spring tower. Components thatare similar in both cutter 10 and cutter 300 will be identified with aseparate reference numeral for clarity.

[0124] Similarly, cutter 300 includes a die assembly 304 that is similarto die assembly 22 of cutter 10, and a blade carrier assembly 306 andsupporting structure similar to carrier assembly 24. The differences inthese systems and assemblies will be described below as required.

[0125] As discussed above with respect to cutter 10, cutter 300 may beused to cut two different mini-blind configurations, in two differentmodes of operation. The first mode of operation involves sizing amini-blind having a vinyl head rail, vinyl bottom rail and eitheraluminum or vinyl slats. This mini-blind configuration will be referredto as the vinyl blind. The second mode of operation involves sizing amini-blind having a steel head rail and bottom rail and aluminum slats.This mini-blind configuration will be referred to as the aluminum blind.Of course other materials and combinations could also be sized.

[0126] The framework or frame 302 supports the movable die assembly 304that works in cooperation with the carrier assembly 306. Die assembly304 is movable from a first or lowered position to cut a mini-blindhaving the first configuration (vinyl blind) to a second or raisedposition to cut a mini-blind having the second configuration (aluminumblind).

[0127] Referring to FIGS. 23-26, cutter 300 includes a drive assembly308 having a rack and pawl mechanism. The rack 310 is driven forward bya driving pawl 312 coupled to an actuation handle 314 by means of a fourbar linkage 316. The rack 310 is attached to the rear side 318 of a rearblade carrier 320, such that translation of the rack 310 results intranslation of the rear blade carrier 320.

[0128] A roller 322 supported in a drive cradle 324 supports the rack310 as it drives the rear blade carrier 320 forward. Additionally, therack 310 is supported laterally by a pair of supports 326 secured to thedrive cradle 324 and positioned on opposite sides of the rack 310. Thedrive cradle 324 is secured to the base plate 328 of the frame 302. Thedrive assembly is further includes a top bar 330 supported by the frontplate 332 of the frame 302 and a rear support member 334 extending fromthe base plate 328 at the rear (R) of the cutter 300. The base plate 328and the top bar 330 of the frame 302 are fixed relative to one anotherand serve as the ground of the four bar linkage 316.

[0129] As illustrated in FIGS. 23-26, the handle 314 is secured to thefour bar linkage 316 at a first link 336. The first link 336 ispivotally attached to the drive cradle 324 at a first pivot 338. Asecond link 340 is pivotally attached to the first link 336 at a secondpivot 342 a predetermined distance from the first pivot 338. The secondlink 340 in turn is pivotally attached to a third link 344 at a thirdpivot 346. The third link 344 is pivotally attached to the top bar 330at a fourth pivot 348. In this manner the four bar linkage 316 iscompleted. The driving pawl 312 is pivotally attached to the third link344 at a fifth pivot 352. Movement of the handle 314 toward the front(F) of the cutter 300 results in forward movement of the driving pawl312 which in turn engages and drives the rack 310 and rear blade carrier320 forward.

[0130] The driving pawl 312 includes a driving pawl release bar 354attached thereto. The release bar 354 extends from the driving pawl 312to a point above the top bar 330. Rearward movement of the driving pawlrelease bar 354 pivots the driving pawl 312 about the fifth pivot 352thereby disengaging the teeth of the driving pawl 312 from the rack 310.

[0131] The driving mechanism further includes a holding pawl 356 toprevent the rack 310 from moving rearward during the cutting of theblind components. An extension bar 358 is secured to and extendsdownward from the top bar 330. The holding pawl 356 is pivotallyattached to the extension bar 358 at a sixth pivot 360. A holding pawlrelease bar 362 extends from the holding pawl 356 to a point above thetop bar 330. Similar to the release bar 354 of the driving pawl 312,movement of the holding pawl release bar 362 toward the rear of thecutter disengages the holding pawl 356 from the rack 310 therebypermitting the rack 310 to be moved rearward.

[0132] A cutter engagement/release switch 364 is slidably attached tothe top bar 330. The switch 364 includes a first end 366 having a knob368 attached thereto, and a second opposing end 370. Movement of theknob 368 in a direction rearward, causes the second end 370 of theswitch 364 to contact and push rearward the holding pawl release bar362. Continued movement of the switch 364, results in the holding pawlrelease bar 362 which in turn contacts the driving pawl release bar 354thereby releasing the driving pawl 312. In this manner the switch 364can be moved rearward to release the driving and holding pawls 312, 356from the rack 310. Once the driving and holding pawls 312, 356 have beenreleased from the rack 310, the rack 310 may be manually moved rearwardor forward.

[0133] Similarly, movement of the switch 364 toward the front of thecutter, results in the engagement of the driving and holding pawls 312,356 with the rack 310. While the switch 364 does not directly pull thedriving and holding pawls 312, 356 into engagement with the rack 310,the driving and holding pawls 312, 356 are pivotally attached to thefour bar linkage 316 and top bar 330 respectively such that gravity actsto pivot the pawls into engagement with the rack 310.

[0134] Referring to FIGS. 24 and 28 the blade carrier assembly 306includes a head rail blade carrier 372, a bottom rail blade carrier 320,and a latch mechanism 374 for coupling the head rail blade carrier 372and bottom rail blade carrier 320 together. The bottom rail bladecarrier 320 includes a blade member 376 (see FIG. 27) having a firstopening 378 for receiving a metal bottom rail of the secondconfiguration as outlined above. The first opening 378 has apredetermined profile similar to the outer shape of the metal bottomrail. The front edge 380 of the blade member 376 includes an arcuateblade portion 382 for cutting the slats independently of the metalbottom rail in the second mode of operation. The front edge 380 of theblade 376 is also employed for cutting both the bottom rail and slats ofthe vinyl blind in the first mode of operation.

[0135] Referring to FIGS. 28 and 29, a latch 384 is secured to the top386 of the head rail blade carrier 372 and extends rearward. The latch384 includes a notch 388 proximate the rearward end. The bottom railblade carrier 320 includes a pivotal catch 390 that can be rotated froma first disengaged position (see FIG. 28) to a second engaged position(see FIG. 33). The catch 390 includes a tab portion 392 that is receivedwithin the notch 388 when the catch 390 is in the first position. Whenthe head rail and bottom rail blade carriers are adjacent one anotherand the die assembly is raised to the second position, movement of thecatch 390 to the second position engages the tab 392 within the notch388, thereby coupling the two blade carriers together.

[0136] Similarly, when the catch 390 is pivoted to the first position,the tab 392 is disengaged from the notch 388 and the blade carriers arefree to move independent of one another. Of course the movement of theblade carriers are still linked through the connectors as describedabove with respect to cutter 10.

[0137] The catch 390 is automatically pivoted by engagement of the topplate 394 of the die assembly 304 as the die is moved to or from thefirst position. When the die assembly 304 is raised from its first orlower position to its second or upper position, the upper surface 396 ofthe top plate 394 of the die assembly contacts the underside 398 of thetab 392 thereby rotating the catch 390 such that the tab 392 is locatedwithin the notch 388. In this manner, the head rail and bottom railblade carriers are coupled together.

[0138] Similarly, when the die assembly 304 is moved from the upper orsecond position to the first or lower position, the under side 400 ofthe top plate 394 engages an extension portion 402 on the catch 390thereby pivoting the catch 390 to the disengaged position.

[0139] Additionally, the bottom rail blade carrier 320 includes a handle404 for manually moving the blade carriers either to a first fullyextended position to receive the components of a blind to be sized or toa second retracted position in which the blades have moved past thecorresponding die portions toward the front plate 332.

[0140] Die assembly 304 includes a safety block 406 attached to the exitside of the support side plate 408 of the die assembly. In this mannerthe safety block is proximate the carrier assembly 306. The safety block406 prohibits the die assembly 304 from being moved from the lowerposition to the upper position, when the bottom rail blade carrier 320is in the fully extended position. This prevents the bottom rail blademember 376 from being damaged by ensuring that the bottom rail die block410 does not hit the cutting edge 380 of the bottom rail blade as thedie 304 is being raised. The safety block 406 is positioned such that ifa user attempts to move the die assembly 304 when the bottom rail bladecarrier 320 is in the extended position, the safety block 406 safelycontacts the under side of the bottom rail blade member 376 where nodamage to the cutting blade 380 can occur.

[0141] The operation of the cutter 300 will now be described, includingthe steps required to operate the cutter 300 in both the first andsecond mode of operation.

[0142] The first step required to use cutter 300 is to move the dieassembly 304 to the first or second position depending on the blindconfiguration to be sized. Movement of the die assembly 304 isaccomplished by pushing the switch 364 in a rearward direction therebydisengaging the driving and holding pawls 312, 356 from the rack 310.With the rack 310 free to move, the handle 404 attached to the rearblade carrier 320 is manually pulled in a forward direction until theblade member 376 of the rear blade carrier 320 clears both the safetyblock 406 and the bottom rail die block 412.

[0143] With the rear blade carrier 320 clear of the safety block 406 andbottom rail die block 412, the die assembly 304 can be either raised orlowered by activation of a lever 414 pivotally attached to the top plateof the frame at a pivot 416. The lever 414 in turn is pivotally attachedto a spring biased link 418 that retains the lever 414 in a first orsecond position representing the lower and upper positions of the dieassembly 304. In the embodiment disclosed in the figures, when the lever414 is pivoted toward the rear of the cutter, the die assembly 304 islowered to the first die position. Similarly when the lever 414 ispivoted toward the front of the cutter 300, the die assembly 304 israised to the second position.

[0144] FIGS. 27-31 illustrate the die assembly 304 in the lowerposition, while FIGS. 32-36 illustrate the die assembly 304 in theraised position. As discussed above, the raising and lowering of the dieassembly 304 engages or disengages respectively the tab 392 within thenotch 388. As shown in FIGS. 28 and 29 the tab 392 is disengaged fromthe notch 388 when the die assembly 304 is in the first or lowerposition. In contrast, FIGS. 33 and 34 illustrate the tab 392 engagedwith the notch 388 when the die assembly 304 is in the second or raisedposition.

[0145] The sizing of a vinyl blind will be described first. The dieassembly 304 is moved to the first or lower position as discussed above.Once the die assembly 304 has been lowered, the rear die assembly 304 ismanually moved rearward utilizing the rear blade carrier handle 404.Since, the rear blade carrier 320 and the front blade carrier 372 arenot coupled with the tab and notch 388, the rear blade carrier 320 willtravel a predetermined distance independently of the front blade carrier372. Connecting rods 420 operate as connecting rods 166 in cutter 10described above, such that once the rear blade carrier 320 has traveledrearward a predetermined distance, the connecting rods 420 act to movethe front and rear blade carriers 320, 372 rearward together beyond thepredetermined distance.

[0146] Once the rear blade carrier 320 has been fully extended rearward,the bottom rail, slats and head rail of the vinyl blind are placedwithin the die assembly as described above with respect to cutter 10.The rear blade carrier 320 may then be moved forward via the rearcarrier handle 404 until the rail and slats are pressed against the slatshear plate 422. In this manner the bottom rail and slats are locatedsecurely between the blade member and the slat shear plate 422. Sincecutter 300 may be used to size a mini-blind having a variety of numberof slats, movement of the rear blade carrier 320 acts to take up excessspace between the blade member 376 and the slat shear plate 422.

[0147] Once, the bottom rail and slats are secured, the switch 364 isthen moved forwardly to disengage the end of switch from the holding anddriving pawl release bars 362, 354. In this manner the holding anddriving pawls 356, 350 are engaged with the rack 310.

[0148] The handle 314 is then moved in a forward direction via pivot338, resulting in forward translation of the driving pawl 350 via thefour bar linkage 316. The handle 314 can only move as far forward as thefirst link 336 will permit. After the handle 314 has traveled as far asit can, the handle 314 is rotated back to its starting position, and asa result the driving pawl 350 is also returned rearwards. Of course anoperator need not pivot the handle as far as it can before returning itrearwards. The angle of the teeth in the rack and the driving pawl,permit the driving pawl 350 to move rearward independently of the rack310. However, due to the pressure that builds up in the bottom rail,slats being cut, the holding pawl 356 is required to prevent the rack210 from moving in a rearward direction while the driving pawl 350 isreturned rearwards.

[0149] The handle 314 is pivoted forward and back until the bottom rail,slats and head rail are sized. As discussed above with respect to cutter10 after a predetermined distance, the rear blade carrier 320 and thehead rail blade carrier 372 move together thereby sizing the remaininguncut components.

[0150] Once all of the components have been sized, the rear bladecarrier 320 and the front blade carrier 372 are in the forward position.Accordingly, the die assembly 304 can be raised for cutting the secondblind configuration. Raising the die assembly 304 automatically pivotsthe catch 390 such that the tab 392 is engaged within the notch 388.(See FIGS. 33 and 34).

[0151] After the die assembly 304 has been raised, the switch 364 ismoved rearward to release the driving and holding pawls 350, 356 asdiscussed above. The rear blind carrier 320 and the front blind carrier372 are moved manually rearward via the rear blind carrier handle 404.Since the rear blade carrier 320 and the front blade carrier 372 arecoupled with the catch 390 and latch 384 they move together. A stoplocated on the frame positively locates the blade carriers relative tothe die assembly.

[0152] Unlike cutter 10, the bottom rail of the aluminum blind islocated within the aperture 378 of the blade member 372, and the slatsare located between the cutting surface 382 and the shear slat plate. Inthis manner, the bottom rail is sized by the rear edge of the apertureor a third blade in a shearing motion while the slats are sized by thecutting surface 382 of the blade member.

[0153] Once the aluminum blind components have been located within thedie assembly and blade carriers, the switch 364 is moved forward topermit engagement of the driving and holding pawls 350, 356 with therack 310. Similar to the sizing of the vinyl blind, the handle 314 ispivoted forward and back a number of times to size the bottom rail,slats and head rail.

[0154] Cutter 300 provides a method for cutting two different blindproducts on the same piece of equipment, utilizing the same drivesystem. As discussed above, cutter 300 accommodates two mini-blindproducts of different geometry and or different material composition.Additionally, the number of slats may also vary for a given blind type.Since the vinyl slats are thicker than an aluminum slat, the region ofthe die assembly 304 to receive the vinyl slats must be wider than theregion to receive a similar number of aluminum slats.

[0155] Additionally, the rear blade carrier 320 must be able to movefurther rearward in the extended direction in order to accommodate thegreater thickness of the vinyl slats. In the preferred embodiment ofcutter 300 the front edge 380 of the blade member 376 also is used tosize the vinyl bottom rail. Accordingly, the rear blade carrier 320 mustmove further rearward than when the metal bottom rail of the aluminumblind is located within the aperture 378 of the blade member 376.

[0156] The cooperation of the drive system 308 and blade carrierassembly 306 permits the rear blade carrier 320 to move to two differentextended positions for sizing the first vinyl blind product and forsizing the second metal blind product. As discussed above the rear bladecarrier 320 is moved further rearward for the sizing the vinyl product,since the front edge 380 of the rear blade member 376 cuts both thebottom rail and slats. Additionally, the width of the compressed vinylslats is greater than compressed aluminum slats.

[0157] The location of the front blade carrier 372 in the extendedposition is the same for both the first and second modes of operation.However, in the first mode of operation for sizing the vinyl blind, thelocation of the rear blade carrier 320 is set by the connecting rods 420while, in the second mode of operation for sizing the aluminum blind,the rear blade carrier 320 is set by the catch 390 and latch 384. Theconnecting rods 420 permit independent travel of the rear blade carrier320, while the catch 390 and latch 384 allow for simultaneoustranslation throughout the translation of the blade carriers.

[0158] The first region of the die assembly 304 may also include abottom rail die block (not shown), such that the portion of the bottomrail of the vinyl mini-blind would be located within the opening in therear blade member. However, in order to accommodate the thickness of thevinyl slats the rear blade carrier 320 would be located further rearwardin the extended position.

[0159] Although the invention has been described in conjunction withspecific embodiments thereof, it is evident that alternatives,modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in theart. It is intended that the claims embrace all such alternatives,modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scopeof the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus for in-store sizing a windowcovering including a head rail, a window covering material, and a bottomrail, the apparatus comprising: a frame; a first cutter member; a secondcutter member; and a drive system moving the first cutter member and thesecond cutter member in the same linear path relative to the frame, andmoving the first cutter member a greater distance than the second cuttermember.
 2. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the first cutter member ismounted to a first carrier and the second cutter member is mounted to asecond carrier.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1 further including a dieassembly coupled to the framework and having a region for receiving aportion of the window covering material and one of the head rail andbottom rail.
 4. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the first cutter memberis configured to cut the window covering material.
 5. The apparatus ofclaim 4 wherein the second cutter member is configured to cut the headrail.
 6. The apparatus of claim 5, further including a third cuttermember and configured to move in the same linear path and distance asthe second cutter member.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein the drivesystem is configured to provide independent translation of the first andsecond cutter members.
 8. A cutter for in-store sizing a window coveringincluding a head rail, a window covering material, and a bottom rail,the cutter comprising: a frame; a first blade carrier coupled to theframe and configured to cut one of the head rail and the bottom rail; asecond blade carrier coupled to the frame and configured to cut thewindow covering material; and a drive system coupled to the frame andconfigured to move the first blade carrier and the second blade carrieron a substantially similar linear path; wherein the second blade carrieris configured to move a greater distance than the first blade carrier.9. The cutter of claim 8 wherein the drive system is configured toprovide independent translation of the first and second cutter members.10. The cutter of claim 8 wherein the window covering material includesa plurality of slats.
 11. The cutter of claim 10 wherein the frameworkincludes a slat shear plate, the first blade carrier being movableindependently of the second blade carrier to compress a variable numberof slats between the second blade member and the slat shear plate, suchthat a first of the plurality of slats is in contact with the secondblade and the last of the plurality of slats is in contact with the slatshear plate.
 12. The cutter of claim 8 wherein the first blade carrierincludes a first blade member attached thereto, and the second bladecarrier includes a second blade member attached thereto.
 13. The cutterof claim 12 wherein the first blade member includes a first opening forreceiving the portion of the bottom rail to be sized, and a front bladeportion for cutting the portion of window covering to be cut.
 14. Ablind cutter for in-store sizing a blind including a head rail, aplurality of slats, and a bottom rail, the blind cutter comprising: aframework; a die assembly coupled to the framework and having a regionfor receiving a portion of the slats and one of the head rail and bottomrail; a blade carrier assembly coupled to the framework and including afirst blade carrier having a first blade coupled thereto, and a secondblade carrier having a second blade coupled thereto; and a drive systemcoupled to the framework and blade carrier assembly, wherein the drivesystem moves the first blade carrier and the second blade carrier in thesame linear path, and moves the first blade carrier a first distance andthe second blade carrier a second distance different than the firstdistance.
 15. The blind cutter of claim 14 wherein the second blade isconfigured to cut the plurality of slats.
 16. The blind cutter of claim15 wherein the first blade is configured to cut one of the head rail andthe bottom rail.
 17. The blind cutter of claim 14, further including athird cutter member and configured to move in the same linear path anddistance as the second cutter member.
 18. The blind cutter of claim 14wherein the drive system includes a driving pawl and track.
 19. Theblind cutter of claim 14 wherein the die assembly is slidable from afixed first position to a fixed second position, the first blind productbeing sized while the die assembly is in the fixed first position, andthe second blind product being sized while the die assembly is in thesecond fixed position.
 20. The blind cutter of claim 14 wherein a firstregion of the die assembly is proximate the first and second blademembers when the die assembly is in the first position, and a secondregion of the die assembly is proximate the first and second blademembers when the die assembly is in the second position.